English
Kinyarwanda
Over 800 youth joined together in a 'Walk against drug abuse' that was organized to discourage drug abuse in Rwandan communities, especially among the youth.
The three kilometer journey walk started from Kivugiza cell to Nyamirambo Sector offices in Nyarugenge district.
The walk attracted youth from all over the country, including students and entrepreneurs, residents, local leaders and representatives of Rwanda National Police (RNP).
At the conclusion of the walk, the District Police Commander of Nyarugenge, Superintendent Jean Bosco Mudacumura, noted that alcoholism and drug abuse are detrimental to the health and future of the young generation, and urged youth to concentrate on activities that build their nation rather than indulge in drug abuse.
“Today, we have a group of skilled and talented young people who have a lot of potential. Rwanda has hope in them to contribute to development and ensure that the country’s future is bright. Therefore, drug abuse should not derail their contribution to development. The youth should say no to drugs at all time,” he said.
“You should also endeavor to cooperate with Police and local authorities in order to identify drug dealers and drug abusers, so that communities can be protected against its adverse effects.”
He also urged parents and leaders in society to be role models and reach out to the youth with a message against the use of illicit drugs and to involve them in capacity building initiatives that improve their skills.
One of the youth who participated in the Walk against Drugs, Charlotte Uwimana, challenged fellow youth to fight against alcoholism and other drug use in a bid to foster their contribution to Rwanda’s development.
“This walk is meant to show our commitment to the promotion of programmes aimed at reducing drug abuse in society, as well as engaging the public in discussing everyone’s role in this fight,” she said.
“We shall also look out for our fellow youth in every community and teach them about the dangerous effects of drugs and also collaborate with Police by sharing information about drug dealers who target youth.”
Rwanda National Police is at the helm of overcoming drug-related problems including drug dealing, drugs smuggling, manufacture of illicit brew and conducts continuous sensitization campaigns aimed at involving residents in the fight against drugs.
